The event, one of India’s largest festivals, will be jointly held by the Indian Embassy in Viet Nam and the Indian Business Chamber in Viet Nam (INCHAM) with the aim of bettering the Vietnamese people and foreign friends’ understanding of India and its culture.

Diwali roughly translates as “festival of lights,” a symbol of India’s ancient culture and its focus on overcoming ignorance through seeking the light of knowledge. The festival traditionally sees rich and poor families alike ignite small colourful lamps to greet Lakshmi, a deity of wealth.

The festival are designed to help Vietnamese people broaden their understanding of the land and people of India through a variety of cultural and artistic media, including music and dance performances, fashion shows and folk games. Pavilions featuring Indian culture, handicrafts and culinary arts also entertained visitors.

This year’s festival will feature the participation of two well-known Indian singers, Raja Hasan and Pragya Sodhani.

The event is expected to attract more than 1,000 visitors, including member of the Indian community in Ho Chi Minh City and delegates from government bodies, enterprises and cultural agencies.

All the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to charity.